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) is a city incorporated in 1909 located in the Tehachapi Mountains between Bakersfield and Mojave in Kern County, California. Tehachapi is located east-southeast of Bakersfield, at an elevation of 3970 feet (1270 m). The area is known for its Tehachapi Loop, Tehachapi Pass Wind Farm, proximity to Edwards Air Force Base, and excellent environment for gliding. A maximum security prison, the California Correctional Institution, also known as the Tehachapi State Prison, is in the area. The population was 10,957 at the 2000 census. As of 2006 the total population of the Tehachapi area is estimated at 35,000. Communities in the vicinity of the City of Tehachapi include Golden Hills, Old Town, Bear Valley Springs, Stallion Springs, Oak Knolls, Alpine Forest Park, Mountain Meadows, Cummings Valley, Brite Valley, Old West Ranch, Sand Canyon, Keene, and Hart Flat. The Greater Tehachapi Area has a radius. Tehachapi's Elevation ranges from to 7,981 feet (Double Mountain).
The headquarters of the United Farm Workers, a national farmworker's organization that was founded and led by Cesar Chavez, is located to the west at Keene. In April 2004 the National Chavez Center opened to the public.
The area is known for its apple orchards, though these have decreased in recent decades. Its four season climate and rural ambiance has attracted retirees to the city. The late actor Jack Palance of
While less than to the north-east of Los Angeles, Tehachapi maintains a distinctively rural atmosphere. Currently, there are only five traffic signals in or near the city. Ranches with horses as well as homes on large areas are common in the areas surrounding Tehachapi. Flora and fauna in the area include the California Poppy (state flower), California quail (state bird), Mojave green rattlesnake, mountain lion (cougar), bobcat, deer, and wild boar to name just a few.
Migrating turkey vultures use the Tehachapi Pass, and are counted annually by the Tehachapi Mountains Birding Club. This annual count is the inspiration for the TMBC club song.
Tehachapi Municipal Airport is becoming a favorite stop for a "$100 Hamburger" run. Also, fuel prices for both Jet A and 100LL are consistently lower than surrounding airports. Mountain Valley Airport also in Tehachapi is the site of glider rides and instruction, well situated to take advantage of good soaring conditions nearby.
(Total can be greater than 100% because Hispanics could be counted in other races)